CN102202619B - Reduced-pressure, wound-treatment dressings and systems - Google Patents

Abstract

A wound-closing dressing, which is suitable for use as part of a reduced-pressure, wound-treatment system, may include a sealing drape, one or more contracting elements, and a gripping member. The contracting element may be coupled to the sealing drape and is configured to contract when activated and to generate a closing force. A gripping member is coupled to the sealing drape and is configured to transmit the closing force to a patient's epidermis. Other dressings, systems, and methods are also disclosed.

Description

Reduced Pressure Trauma Therapy Dressings and Systems

related application

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 entitled "Reduced-Pressure Wound Treatment Dressing and System" filed on November 7, 2008 pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119(e) Interest of /112,371, 61/112,371 is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. the

technical field

The present invention relates generally to medical treatment systems, and more particularly, to reduced pressure wound treatment dressings, systems and methods. the

Background technique

Trauma can be created intentionally, such as a surgical incision, or unintentionally, such as in an accident. In both cases, closure of the wound is important to prevent loss of vital body fluids and intrusion of microorganisms. Wounds are typically closed using sutures or staples. the

However, the use of sutures or staples may have undesired side effects. For example, insertion of sutures or staples necessarily involves subjecting the patient to additional trauma for the sutures or staples to enter the patient's epidermis. These additional wounds are also subject to possible infection. Furthermore, while trauma itself can result in scarring, additional trauma from sutures or staples can also result in additional scarring, which may unnecessarily accentuate the already aesthetically undesirable nature of the original traumatic scar. the

Summary of the invention

The present invention addresses the shortcomings of wound care, as shown and described herein in various illustrative, non-limiting embodiments. According to an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a reduced pressure wound treatment system for treating a wound on a patient includes a wound closure dressing, a manifold member for positioning between a tissue-facing surface of a sealing drape and the wound; and a reduced pressure subsystem for delivering reduced pressure to the wound closure dressing. A wound closure dressing includes a sealing drape having a first surface and a tissue-facing surface, a constricting element coupled to the sealing drape, and a gripping member coupled to the sealing drape. Sealing drape is used to place over the wound. The contraction element is configured to contract and thereby generate a closure force when activated. The clamping member is configured to transmit a closure force to the patient's epidermis. The sealing drape and the gripping members are configured to form a fluid seal over the wound. the

According to another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a wound closure dressing includes an airtight drape having a first surface and a tissue-facing surface, a constriction element coupled to the airtight drape, and a gripping member coupled to the airtight drape. Sealing drape is used to place over the wound. The contraction element is configured to contract and thereby generate a closure force when activated. The clamping member is configured to transmit a closure force to the patient's epidermis. The sealing drape and the gripping members are configured to form a fluid seal over the wound. the

According to another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a wound closure dressing includes an airtight drape having a first surface and a tissue-facing surface, a dissolvable body coupled to the airtight drape, and a dissolvable body coupled to the dissolvable body in a stretched position. Elastic components of the body. Sealing drape is used to place over the wound. The elastic member contracts to a free position upon dissolution of at least a portion of the dissolvable body, thereby generating a closure force. The wound closure dressing also includes a grip member coupled to at least one of the seal drape and the elastic member. The clamping member is configured to transmit a closure force to the patient's epidermis. the

According to another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a method for treating a wound comprises the steps of: securing a constricting element to the epidermis of a patient such that the constricting element spans at least a portion of the patient's wound, and activating the constricting element such that the constricting element The element generates the closing force. The retraction element is configured to retract from an extended position to a retracted position when activated and thereby generate a closure force. the

According to another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a method of making a wound closure dressing includes the steps of forming an airtight drape having a first surface and a tissue-facing surface, coupling a constriction element to the airtight drape, and attaching the clip to the airtight drape. The tightening member is coupled to the sealing drape. The clamping member is configured to transmit a closure force to the patient's epidermis. The retraction element is configured to retract from an extended position to a retracted position when activated and thereby generate a closure force. the

Brief description of the drawings

A more complete understanding of the invention can be gained when reference is made to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of a system for treating wounds on a patient;

Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 in Figure 1 of the system of Figure 1;

Figure 3A is a schematic top view of the system of Figure 1;

FIG. 3B is a schematic top view of the system of FIG. 1 showing certain contraction elements activated thereby generating a closing force;

Figure 4A is a schematic top view of an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of a wound closure dressing shown covering a wound;

Figure 4B is a schematic top view of the dressing of Figure 4A, showing the contraction element being activated thereby generating a closure force;

Figure 5 is a schematic top view of an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of a system for treating wounds;

Figure 6 is a schematic top view of an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of the system shown for treating wounds;

Figure 7A is a schematic bottom view of a portion of an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of a system for treating wounds;

Figure 7B is a schematic perspective view of the system of Figure 7A;

Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of a system for treating wounds;

Figure 9A is a schematic top view of the system portion of Figure 8; and

Fig. 9B is a schematic top view of the system portion of Fig. 8, showing certain beads being dissolved to cause the corresponding elastic member to generate a closing force. the

Detailed description of the invention

In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show by way of example specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and logical structural, mechanical, electrical and chemical changes may be made without departing from spirit or scope of the invention. To avoid detail not necessary to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the following detailed description should not be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims. the

Referring now primarily to FIGS. 1-3B , a first illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of a reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 for treating a wound 102 on a patient is shown. Reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 generally includes a wound closure dressing 110 , a manifold member 112 and a reduced pressure subsystem 114 . Reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 is shown in an area surrounding wound 102 . In this illustration, wound 102 passes through epidermis 104 (or skin), dermis 106 , and to subcutaneous or subcutaneous tissue 108 . Subcutaneous tissue 108 may include many tissue types, such as adipose tissue or muscle. While wound 102 is shown in this illustrative embodiment through epidermis 104, dermis 106, and into subcutaneous tissue 108, it will be appreciated that reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 may be used to treat wounds of any depth. the

The wound closure dressing 110 includes a sealing drape 116 , one or more constricting elements 118 and a gripping member 120 . Sealing drape 116 includes a first surface 122 and a second, tissue-facing surface 124 . Sealing drape 116 may be sized such that sealing drape 116 overlaps wound 102 in such a manner that drape extension 126 extends beyond the periphery of wound 102 . the

盖布材料、丙烯酸盖布材料例如可从Avery Dennison获得的丙烯酸盖布材料或切割盖布材料(incise drape material)。然而，将意识到，密封盖布116可以由任何合适的材料形成。在一个替代形式中，密封盖布116可以被穿孔以允许湿气或水蒸气经过以激活收缩元件(下文进一步讨论)。除非另外指明，如本文所使用的，“或”不要求相互排他。  The sealing drape 116 may be made of an elastomeric material. "Elastomeric" means having the properties of an elastomer. It generally refers to polymeric materials that have rubber-like properties. More specifically, most elastomers have greater than 100% elongation and considerable resilience. The resilience of a material refers to the ability of the material to recover from elastic deformation. Examples of elastomers may include, but are not limited to: natural rubber, polyisoprene, styrene butadiene rubber, neoprene, polybutadiene, nitrile rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer , chlorosulfonated polyethylene, polysulfide rubber, polyurethane, EVA film, copolyester and silicone resin. In addition, specific examples of sealing member materials include silicone resin drape materials, 3M

Drape material, acrylic drape material such as acrylic drape material or incise drape material available from Avery Dennison. However, it will be appreciated that the seal drape 116 may be formed from any suitable material. In an alternative form, the sealing drape 116 may be perforated to allow the passage of moisture or water vapor to activate the retraction element (discussed further below). Unless otherwise specified, as used herein, "or" does not require mutual exclusivity.

One or more constriction elements 118 are coupled to the sealing drape 116 . Each constriction element 118 is configured to contract when activated to generate a closure force (eg, in the direction illustrated by vector or arrow 128 in FIG. 3B ) that may assist in closing the wound 102 . In this illustrative embodiment, contraction element 118 is in a stretched position when wound closure dressing 110 is applied to a patient. The retraction element 118 can be coupled to the sealing drape 116 in the stretched position, or can be moved to the stretched position while the wound closure dressing 110 is being applied to the patient. In both cases, when the constriction elements 118 are activated, they attempt to return to a non-stretched or free position, and thereby contract to generate a closure force. Other illustrative ways of constriction are described further below. the

Wound closure dressing 110 may include various constricting elements 118 arranged in a number of configurations. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-3B , wound closure dressing 110 may include a plurality of constriction elements 118 each formed as a strip. Alternatively, wound closure dressing 110 may include a single constricting element 118 . In yet another embodiment, one or more constricting elements 118 may be woven into the sealing drape 116 or into an additional member coupled to the sealing drape 116, such as gauze, another drape-like portion, etc. . In addition, each constriction element 118 may be coupled to the constriction element 118 by any suitable means or technique, including but not limited to welding (eg, ultrasonic welding or radio frequency welding), binding, mechanical fasteners, adhesives, cements, and the like. Sealing drape 116. Alternatively, each shrink element 118 may be molded into the seal drape 116 . The constriction element 118 is coupled to the second tissue-facing surface 124 of the sealing drape 116 or to the first surface 122 of the sealing drape 116 or to an interior portion of the sealing drape 116 . the

Each contraction element 118 may be formed from any suitable material that contracts in response to being activated. The retracting element 118 is configured to move from an extended position to a retracted position (or a free position) when fully activated. For example, each shrink element 118 may be formed from cellulose, whereby moisture causes the shrink element 118 to shrink. Moisture may be introduced from the patient's own exudate. Alternatively or additionally, moisture may be introduced into the wound 102 or wound area in the form of a fluid such as water, bacteriostatic water, saline, etc., before the wound closure dressing 110 is applied to the patient. In yet another alternative or additional form, the sealing drape 116 may be provided with ports (not shown) for introducing fluid into the wound area to activate the constriction element 118 after the wound closure dressing 110 has been applied to the patient. the

In another alternative or additional form, the contraction element 118 may be formed from a shape memory metal that contracts in response to being activated. An example of a suitable shape memory metal is Nitinol Devices & Components of Fremont, California. Material. The constriction element 118 formed of shape memory metal may be activated by heat, such as a patient's body heat, a heating plate, a heat lamp, or the like. Alternatively or additionally, the constriction element 118 may be activated by the introduction of electromagnetic induction. However, it will be appreciated that the constricting element 118 may be formed from any suitable material, including but not limited to shape memory alloys, magnetic shape memory alloys, shape memory polymers, piezoelectric materials, electroactive polymers, magnetorheological fluids, and elastic bodies and electrorheological fluids. Depending on the specific material, activation can take the form of electric fields, temperature changes, magnetic fields, mechanical loads or pressures, light, ultraviolet light, changes in environmental pH, ultrasound, moisture, and the like.

Gripping member 120 facilitates the transmission of the closure force (shown by arrow 128 ) generated by contraction of constriction element 118 to the patient's skin. The transmitted force is illustrated in FIG. 2 as force vector 130 . Sealing drape 116 and gripping member 120 may cooperate to form a fluid seal over patient's wound 102 . "Fluid-tight" or "sealed" means a seal sufficient to maintain reduced pressure at the desired location, taking into account the particular reduced-pressure source or subsystem involved. the

Gripping member 120 may be any material suitable for transferring closure force from constriction element 118 to patient's epidermis 104 (patient's epidermis 104 may be considered a layer comprising a pad or other material) or to aid in the formation of fluid over wound 102. seal. For example, the gripping member 120 can be a pressure sensitive adhesive, heat activated adhesive, sealing tape, double sided sealing tape, glue, hydrocolloid, hydrogel, hooks, sutures, and the like. In this illustrative embodiment, gripping member 120 is an adhesive layer and spans the width of second tissue-facing surface 124 of sealing drape 116 and overlaps retraction element 118 . However, it will be appreciated that the gripping member 120 may only be coupled to the tissue-facing surface of the drape extension 126 . Gripping member 120 may be formed as a thin layer or pattern distributed over sealing drape 116 . Alternatively, the gripping member 120 may be applied over the entire first surface 122 of the sealing drape 116 or on the first surface of the drape extension 126 as in the case of a sealing tape. the

Manifold member 112 or manifold can be positioned between second tissue-facing surface 124 of sealing drape 116 and at least a portion of wound 102 . The manifold member 112 may be sized to substantially cover the estimated area of the wound 102, although larger or smaller sizes may be used in different applications. The manifold member 112 is fabricated from a manifold material. the

As used herein, the term "manifold" generally refers to a substance or structure provided to assist in applying reduced pressure to the wound 102, delivering fluid to the wound 102, or removing fluid from the wound 102. The manifold member 112 typically includes a plurality of flow channels or paths that distribute fluid provided to and removed from the wound 102 surrounding the manifold member 112 . In an illustrative embodiment, the flow channels or pathways are interconnected to improve distribution of fluid provided or removed from wound 102 . Manifold member 112 may be a biocompatible material that can be placed in contact with wound 102 and distribute reduced pressure to wound 102 . Examples of manifold member 112 may include, but are not limited to, devices having structural elements arranged to form flow channels, such as cellular foams, open cell foams, porous tissue aggregates, and liquids, condensations, or liquids that include or solidify to include flow channels, for example. glue and foam. Manifold member 112 may be porous and may be fabricated from foam, gauze, felted pads, or any other material suitable for a particular biological application. the

材料。其他实施方案可以包括“闭孔”。在某些条件下，歧管构件112还可以用于向创伤102分配流体，例如药物、抗菌剂、生长因子和各种溶液。在歧管构件112中或歧管构件112上可以包括其他层，例如吸收性材料、毛细管材料(wicking material)、疏水材料和亲水材料。在某些情况下，可以是期望的是，在微焊工艺中将离子银加入泡沫中或向歧管构件112中加入其他物质，例如抗微生物剂。歧管构件112可以是各向同性的或各向异性的，取决于在减压期间所期望的压缩力的精确的取向。此外，歧管材料可以是生物可吸收材料。  In one embodiment, the manifold member 112 is a porous foam and includes a plurality of interconnected cells or pores that act as flow channels. The cellular foam may be a polyurethane open cell reticulated foam such as that produced by Kinetic Concepts, Incorporated of San Antonio, Texas

Material. Other embodiments may include "closed cells". Under certain conditions, manifold member 112 may also be used to dispense fluids, such as medications, antiseptics, growth factors, and various solutions, to wound 102 . Other layers may be included in or on the manifold member 112, such as absorbent materials, wicking materials, hydrophobic materials, and hydrophilic materials. In some cases, it may be desirable to add ionic silver to the foam or to add other substances, such as antimicrobial agents, to the manifold member 112 during the microsoldering process. Manifold member 112 may be isotropic or anisotropic, depending on the precise orientation of the compressive force desired during depressurization. Additionally, the manifold material can be a bioabsorbable material.

The manifold member 112 may be coupled to a seal drape 116 . Coupling can occur in many ways. Sealing drape 116 and manifold member 112 may be coupled using an adhesive, such as an acrylic adhesive, silicone adhesive, hydrogel, hydrocolloid, or the like. Alternatively, the seal drape 116 and the manifold member 112 may be bonded by thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, radio frequency bonding, and the like. Coupling can occur in a pattern or more completely. Structures may be added to the joint to render the sealing drape 116 anisotropic in a desired direction, ie to create an anisotropic drape material. The anisotropic drape material may act in conjunction with the constriction element 118 to move primarily in a given direction, ie only about a certain axis or axes. For example, an anisotropic sealing drape may act in conjunction with a contraction element to generate a closure force to assist in closing the wound. the

Reduced-pressure subsystem 114 includes reduced-pressure source 132, which may take many different forms. Reduced pressure source 132 provides reduced pressure as part of reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 . Reduced pressure source 132 provides reduced pressure. Reduced pressure source 132 may be any device for supplying reduced pressure, such as a vacuum pump, wall suction, or other source. Although the amount and nature of the reduced pressure applied to the tissue site or wound will typically vary depending on the application, the reduced pressure will typically be between -5 mmHg and -500 mmHg and more typically between -100 mmHg and -300 mmHg, and More typically in the range of -100mmHg to -200mmHg. the

As used herein, "reduced pressure" generally refers to a pressure that is less than the ambient pressure at the tissue site or wound being treated. In most cases, this reduced pressure will be less than the atmospheric pressure where the patient is located. Alternatively, the reduced pressure may be less than the hydrostatic pressure at the tissue site. Unless otherwise indicated, pressure values stated herein are gauge pressures. The reduced pressure delivered may be constant or variable (regular or random) and may be delivered continuously or intermittently. Although the terms "vacuum" and "negative pressure" may be used to describe pressure applied to a tissue site, the actual pressure applied to the tissue site may be greater than the pressure typically associated with an absolute vacuum. Consistent with the use herein, an increase in reduced or vacuum pressure typically refers to a relative decrease in absolute pressure. the

In this illustrative embodiment, reduced pressure source 132 is shown with battery compartment 134 and tank region 136 with window 138 providing a visual indication of the level of fluid within tank 136 . Interposed membrane filters, such as hydrophobic or oleophobic filters, may be interspersed between the reduced-pressure delivery conduit or line 140 and the reduced-pressure source 132 . the

技术口(technology port)。减压接驳体142允许减压被传送至创伤闭合敷料110并且在创伤闭合敷料110的内部部分内以及歧管构件112内被实现。在本例证性的实施方案中，肘形口144经过密封盖布116延伸到歧管构件112。  Reduced pressure generated by reduced pressure source 132 is delivered via reduced pressure delivery conduit 140 to reduced pressure port 142 , which may be an elbow 144 . In an exemplary embodiment, the elbow 144 is available from KCI in San Antonio, Texas

technology port. Reduced pressure interface 142 allows reduced pressure to be delivered to wound closure dressing 110 and achieved within the interior portion of wound closure dressing 110 as well as within manifold member 112 . In the illustrative embodiment, elbow 144 extends through seal drape 116 to manifold member 112 .

One or more devices 141 may be added to reduced pressure delivery catheter 140 . For example, device 141 may be a fluid reservoir or collection member for containing exudate and other removed fluids. Other examples of devices 141 that may be included on or otherwise fluidly coupled to reduced-pressure delivery catheter 140 include the following non-limiting examples: pressure feedback devices, volumetric detection systems, blood testing systems, Infection detection systems, flow monitoring systems, temperature monitoring systems, and more. Some of these devices may be integrally formed with the reduced pressure source 132 . the

In operation, the reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 may be applied to a wound 102 of a patient. Manifold member 112 is first placed on wound 102 . Manifold member 112 may be placed within wound 102 or may cover a portion of wound 102 . If wound closure dressing 110 is not already coupled to manifold member 112 , then wound closure dressing 110 may be placed on top of manifold member 112 such that drape extension 126 of sealing drape 116 extends beyond the periphery of wound 102 . Drape extension 126 is secured to patient's epidermis 104 by clamping members 120 to form a fluid seal over wound 102 . One or more constriction elements 118 may then be activated such that the constriction elements 118 generate a constriction force (shown by arrow 128 ) which is transmitted through the gripping member 120 to the patient's epidermis 104 causing the wound edge 101 to be pulled get closer. the

If the reduced-pressure port 142 is not already installed, the reduced-pressure port 142 is applied and the reduced-pressure delivery conduit 140 is fluidly coupled at one end. The other end of the reduced pressure delivery conduit 140 is fluidly coupled to the reduced pressure source 132 . Reduced pressure source 132 may then be activated such that reduced pressure is delivered to wound closure dressing 110 . Advantageously, if the constriction element 118 is activated by moisture from the fluid, as discussed above, the application of reduced pressure can act in part to pull additional fluid out of the interior of the wound closure dressing 110 and to the constriction element 118 superior. the

When the pressure is reduced, the manifold member 112 compresses and contracts laterally to form a semi-rigid base. The reduced pressure is further delivered still through the manifold member 112 such that reduced pressure is experienced at the patient's epidermis 104 and at the wound 102 . The reduced pressure delivered to manifold member 112 may generate compressive force 146 that may provide stability and therapy. The compressive force 146 may not only be at the top of the epidermis 104 ; the compressive force 146 may extend deeper down and may be felt at the level of the subcutaneous tissue 108 . the

When the seal drape 116 and manifold member 112 contract laterally under the influence of reduced pressure, and as the downward force acts through the Poisson's ratio of the skin 104, an inward force 148 can be generated, which 148 can help maintain additional closure force on wound 102 and can generally provide additional stability to wound 102 . Accordingly, the inward force 148 from the reduced pressure and the force 130 from the constriction element 118 may act together to assist in closing the wound 102 . At the same time, the reduced pressure delivered to and through manifold member 112 helps remove any exudate and other fluids from wound 102 and provides reduced pressure therapy to wound 102. All of these effects can improve wound 102 healing. the

Referring to FIG. 3A , wound closure dressing 110 is shown deployed on wound 102 prior to activation of constriction element 118 . FIG. 3B shows wound closure dressing 110 after at least three innermost constricting elements 118 have at least partially contracted to provide a closure force indicated by arrows 128 . the

It may be desirable to administer reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 in the operating room and allow reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 to remain on the patient until sufficient healing has occurred. In this regard, it may be desirable to form the sealing drape 116, manifold member 112, and any other layers from transparent materials to allow the care provider to obtain visual cues about the wound 102 without having to remove the wound closure dressing 110 . Additionally, it should be appreciated that the reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 may be used as a primary wound closure treatment or as an intermediate step in wound closure treatment. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that wound closure dressing 110 may be used without manifold member 112 or reduced pressure subsystem 114 . Wound closure dressing 110 may be beneficial as a self-contained bandage capable of delivering closure force to wound 102 without requiring reduced pressure. the

Referring now primarily to FIGS. 4A and 4B , an illustrative embodiment of a wound closure dressing 210 is shown. Wound closure dressing 210 is similar in most respects to wound closure dressing 110 and related components of FIGS. Sealing drape 216 is similar to sealing drape 116 , for example. Although wound closure dressing 210 exists as a separate wound closure dressing, wound closure dressing 210 may be used as part of a reduced pressure system, such as reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 . Wound closure dressing 210 may be shaped to approximate the shape of wound 202 or extend beyond wound 202 . Although the plan view of wound closure dressing 210 is shown as being substantially circular, it will be appreciated that wound closure dressing 210 may have any suitable plan view, including but not limited to square, rectangular, triangular, oval , hexagonal, octagonal, irregular, etc. Constriction elements 218 may be woven together in a "thatched" pattern such that when activated, a substantially equal closure force (represented by arrow 228 in FIG. 4B ) may be distributed across wound 202 around the periphery 203 . Figure 4A shows wound closure dressing 210 and wound 202 before activation of constriction element 218, and Figure 4B shows wound closure dressing 210 and wound 202 after constriction element 218 has been activated. the

Referring now primarily to FIG. 5 , another illustrative reduced pressure wound closure system 300 for treating a wound 302 on a patient is shown. The system is generally similar in most respects to that of the reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 of FIGS. 1-3B . Similar parts are indicated by adjusting the reference numerals of FIGS. 1-3B by 200 . In this illustrative embodiment, multiple retraction elements 318 and backing strips 350 may be utilized. Each shrink element 318 and corresponding backing strip 350 form a shrink strip 352 . Accordingly, multiple shrink strips 352 may be utilized. Each retraction element 318 is detachably coupled to a corresponding backing strip 350 . As previously described, contraction element 318 is configured to contract when activated to generate a closure force that may assist in closing wound 302 . The retraction element 318 may be detachably coupled to the back pad strip 350 in the stretched position, or may be moved to the stretched position when the retraction strip 352 is applied to the patient. In both cases, when the constriction element 318 is activated, the constriction element 318 attempts to return to a non-stretched or free position, and thereby contracts to generate a closure force. the

While the illustrative embodiment shows each shrink strip 352 having a single shrink element 318, it will be appreciated that any suitable number of shrink elements 318 may be employed. Furthermore, where the shrink strip 352 includes a plurality of shrink elements 318, the plurality of shrink elements 318 may be arranged in any suitable pattern relative to each other, such as parallel, perpendicular, angled, etc. FIG. While multiple shrink elements 318, backing strips 350, and shrink strips 352 are mentioned, a single member of each could also be used. As with the other embodiments, the contraction element 318 may be formed from any suitable material that contracts in response to being activated and may be activated in a number of ways. the

Backing strip 350 may be formed from any suitable material including, but not limited to, gauze, elastomers, adhesives, and the like. Any suitable number of constriction strips 352 may be placed over wound 302 and a manifold member, such as manifold member 112 in FIG. 2 . Each retraction strip 352 may be secured to the epidermis in any suitable manner by a corresponding clamping member to assist in closing the wound 302 . Sealing drape 316 with reduced-pressure interface 342 can be placed over shrink strip 352 so that reduced pressure can be delivered to wound 302; alternatively or additionally, shrink strip 352 can be placed over seal drape 316 top. In an alternative embodiment, the backing strip 350 of each shrink strip 352 employed may be formed from a drape material whereby each backing strip 350 cooperates with one or more adjacent backing strips 350 , thereby forming an integral drape, thereby eliminating the need for an additional sealing drape; in this embodiment, it may be desirable to use a clamping member (such as an adhesive agent). In yet another alternative embodiment, the retraction strip 352 can be used as a stand-alone component (eg, without the manifold and decompression subsystem) to assist in wound closure.

Referring now primarily to FIG. 6 , another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment of a reduced pressure wound closure system 400 for treating a wound 402 is shown. The reduced pressure wound closure system 400 is generally similar in most respects to the reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 of FIGS. 1-3B , and like portions are indicated by adjusting the reference numeral 300 of FIGS. 1-3B . The constriction elements 418 are arranged in a "star" pattern to deliver substantially equal closure forces to the periphery 401 of the wound 402 . The retraction element 418 includes a central aperture 454 for receiving the reduced pressure dock 442 therethrough. While the illustrative constriction element 418 is shown as having eight "legs," it will be appreciated that the constriction element 418 may include any suitable number of legs and may be fabricated as an integral unit as shown or made of Manufacturing of multiple parts. the

Referring now primarily to FIGS. 7A and 7B , FIG. 7A is a schematic bottom view of a portion of an illustrative embodiment of a system for treating wounds. These figures include an alternative embodiment of a wound closure dressing 500 for closing a wound. Wound closure dressing 500 includes sealing drape 502 , dissolvable body 504 , elastic member 506 and gripping member 508 . Wound closure dressing 500 may be used as a stand-alone component to aid in wound closure, or may be used as part of a reduced pressure system to aid in wound closure and treatment. Sealing drape 502 includes a first surface 510 and a second tissue-facing surface 512 . Sealing drape 502 may generally be formed from the same or similar materials as sealing drape 116 of FIGS. 1-3B and may operate in a similar manner. Optionally, the sealing drape 502 may be perforated to allow moisture to pass from the first surface 510 to the dissolvable body 504 . the

The dissolvable body 504 is coupled to the second tissue-facing surface 512 of the sealing drape 502 . The dissolvable body 504 may be formed from any suitable dissolvable material, including but not limited to biodegradable or bioabsorbable materials such as polylactide (PLA), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) acid)) (PLGA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polycaprolactone (PCL), sodium chloride or the like. Additionally, the soluble body 504 may include oxygenated particles or antimicrobial particles for reducing infection. The dissolvable body 504 holds the elastic member 506 in the stretched position, and the dissolvable body 504 may dissolve under the influence of any suitable factor, including but not limited to moisture, heat, ultrasound, and the like. As the dissolvable body 504 dissolves, the elastic member 506 is at least partially released, thereby creating a closure force as the elastic member 506 attempts to return to the unstretched position. Although the illustrative embodiment shows a single soluble body 504, it will be appreciated that any suitable number of soluble bodies may be employed (see, e.g., FIGS. 8-9B ). the

The elastic member 506 is coupled to the dissolvable body 504 in a stretched position such that when the dissolvable body 504, or a portion thereof, dissolves, the elastic member 506 contracts to generate a closure force. Resilient member 506 may be coupled to dissolvable body 504 by any suitable means or technique, including but not limited to adhesives, mechanical fasteners, binding, sonic welding, and the like. Alternatively or additionally, elastic member 506 may be coupled by embedding elastic member 506 in dissolvable body 504 . Elastic member 506 may be any suitable material capable of coupling to dissolvable body 504 in a stretched position and capable of contracting when at least a portion of dissolvable body 504 dissolves. For example and without limitation, elastic member 506 may be formed of an elastomer. As used herein, the term "coupled" includes coupling through separate objects and includes direct coupling. The term "coupled" also includes two or more components being continuous with each other by virtue of each of the components being formed from the same sheet of material. Furthermore, the term "coupled" may include chemical (eg, through a chemical bond), mechanical, thermal or electrical coupling. Coupling may also include embedding one component within another. the

As best shown in Figure 7B, resilient member 506 has a substantially circular cross-section in this illustrative embodiment. However, it should be appreciated that the resilient member 506 may have any suitable cross-section. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the resilient member 506 may have any suitable configuration. For example, the elastic members 506 may be arranged in a "matt" pattern, a cross pattern, a parallel pattern, and the like. Furthermore, while the illustrative embodiment shows a single elastic member 506 , it will be appreciated that any suitable number of elastic members 506 may be coupled to one or more dissolvable bodies 504 . Additionally, the ends of the elastic member 506 can be coupled to the sealing drape 502 such that the contraction force generated by the elastic member 506 can be directly transferred to the clamping member 508 (as discussed further below). the

Gripping member 508 is the same as or similar to gripping member 120 of reduced pressure wound treatment system 100 of FIGS. 1-3B . The clamping member 508 may be coupled to at least one of the sealing drape 502 , the dissolvable body 504 or the elastic member 506 . Gripping member 508 is configured to transmit the force generated by the contraction of elastic member 506 to the patient's epidermis to assist in closing the wound. Optionally, as best shown in Figure 7B, the wound closure dressing 500 may also include a perforated sheet 514 disposed between the dissolvable body 504 and the wound to accommodate the wound from the patient. The amount of moisture that is allowed to pass to the exudate of the dissolvable body 504 . This may be useful for controlling the amount or rate at which the soluble body 504 dissolves in situations where the soluble body 504 dissolves when moisture is introduced into the soluble body 504. the

Referring now primarily to FIGS. 8-9B , another wound closure dressing 610 for treating a wound 602 is shown. Wound closure dressing 610 is generally similar in most respects to wound closure dressing 500 of FIGS. 7A and 7B . Similar parts are indicated by adjusting the reference numerals of FIGS. 7A and 7B by 100 . In this embodiment, dissolvable body 604 includes a plurality of dissolvable beads 618 or other dissolvable members. The plurality of dissolvable beads 618 maintains the force generated by the stretched elastic member 606, and if the plurality of dissolvable beads 618 is dissolved, a clamping member (not shown) attached to the elastic member 606 experiences an elevated force . Beads 618 are typically dissolved by exudate from wound 602 . As the bead 618 dissolves, the contraction force generated by the corresponding elastic member 606 increases. The resulting closure force may have a direct relationship to the number of beads 618 dissolved. For example, as the number of dissolved beads 618 increases, the resulting closure force may increase in a defined relationship, eg, linearly, exponentially, etc. the

Thus, as best shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B , wound closure dressing 610 can be "tuned" to produce greater closure force at wider portions of wound 602 . Furthermore, this can happen in a self-regulating manner. In other words, areas of the wound 602 that have elevated levels of exudate, typically wider portions of the wound 602, experience greater closure forces because the elevated levels of exudate result in more The bead 618 dissolves, which increases the closing force generated by the elastic member 606. Wound closure dressing 610 may be used with a sealing drape and gripping member similar to that of wound closure dressing 510 of FIGS. 7A and 7B and as part of a reduced pressure therapy system. Alternatively, each end of each elastic member 606 may be secured to the patient's epidermis and a wound closure dressing 610 used as a separate dressing for assisting wound closure. the

Although the present invention and its advantages have been disclosed in the context of certain illustrative and non-limiting embodiments, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, substitutions and alterations can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. scope of the invention. It will be appreciated that features described in connection with any one embodiment may also be applicable to any other embodiment. the

Claims (18)

1. A reduced pressure trauma therapy system for treating trauma on a patient, said system comprising: wound closure dressings, which include: a sealing drape having a first surface and a tissue-facing surface for placement over a wound, a constriction element coupled to the sealing drape, the constriction element configured to contract when activated and thereby generate a closure force, a clamping member coupled to the sealing drape, the clamping member configured to transmit the closure force to the patient's epidermis, wherein the sealing drape and the clamping member are configured to Formation of a fluid seal over the wound; a manifold member for positioning between the tissue-facing surface of the sealing drape and the wound; and A reduced pressure subsystem for delivering reduced pressure to the wound closure dressing. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the retracting element is configured to move from an extended position to a retracted position, and wherein the retracting element is initially in the extended position. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the constricting element is heat activated. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the contraction element is activated by moisture. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the constricting element is activated by electromagnetic induction. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the constriction element comprises a plurality of constriction strips. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the clamping member comprises an adhesive. 8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a dissolvable body coupled to the constricting element, wherein the constricting element is activated when at least a portion of the dissolvable body dissolves. 9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a dissolvable body coupled to the constricting element, wherein the constricting element is activated when at least a portion of the dissolvable body dissolves, and wherein the dissolvable body Includes multiple dissolvable beads. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the constricting element is coupled to the tissue-facing surface of the sealing drape. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the shrinking element comprises a material that is stretched from a free length to a stretched length and dried, and wherein the shrinking element is activated by moisture. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the constricting element comprises a memory metal that is stretched to a stretched position, and wherein the constricting element is activated by heat from the patient. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the shrinking element comprises a material stretched from a free length to a stretched length and dried; wherein the contraction element is activated by moisture; and Wherein the clamping member comprises an adhesive layer. 14. A method of making a wound closure dressing comprising the steps of: forming a sealing drape having a first surface and a tissue-facing surface; coupling a retraction element to the sealing drape, wherein the retraction element is configured to retract from an extended position to a retracted position when activated and thereby generate a closure force; coupling a gripping member to the sealing drape such that the gripping member is configured to transmit the closure force to the patient's epidermis; and A manifold member is coupled to the tissue-facing surface of the sealing drape. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising coupling a dissolvable body to the constricting element such that the constricting element is activated when at least a portion of the dissolvable body dissolves. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising coupling a plurality of shrink elements to the sealing drape. 17. The method of claim 14, further comprising fluidly coupling a reduced pressure subsystem to the seal drape. 18. The method of claim 14, wherein the step of coupling a constricting element to the sealing drape comprises coupling a constricting element having a plurality of dissolvable beads.

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